Named: Pilot and two police officers who died on board Glasgow helicopter

 
Pa1 December 2013

The three people who died on board a service helicopter which crashed into a crowded pub have been named by police.

At least eight people were killed when the helicopter came down on to the roof of the Clutha Vaults pub in Glasgow on Friday night.

Those on board the helicopter have been named as pilot David Traill, police officer Kirsty Nelis and police officer Tony Collins.

Police Scotland Chief Constable Sir Stephen House said both constables were members of the helicopter unit and had both previously been commended for acts of bravery.

Sir Stephen said: "It is with great sadness that I can confirm that the crew of the helicopter involved in this incident have all died. They were constable Tony Collins, constable Kirsty Nelis and the pilot captain Dave Traill.

"Kirsty and Tony were members of the Police Scotland operations support division. They were part of the helicopter unit.

"Captain Dave Traill had worked with the police for over four years and was very much a part of our team.

"I'd like to pay tribute to all of them and the work that they did over the years keeping people safe across Scotland.

"Both the officers involved had previously been commended by the police by bravery in different acts."

Pc Collins was 43 years old, Pc Nelis was 36 and captain Dave Traill was aged 51, police said.

Sir Stephen said: "Since the tragic incident on Friday night it has been an extremely difficult time for all those affected. Our thoughts and condolences remain with the families and friends of the people who have died.

"I would like to repeat my thanks to all the emergency services and partners who continue to work at the scene in what is a complex and difficult operation.

"I would also like to thank the many people who have expressed their sympathies and support for us. Everyone has taken great comfort from these words at such a difficult time."

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